Explanatory notes on ‘what to expect’, discusses options & answers to common problems. Mothers want information that is up-to-date and evidence based; socially disadvantaged mothers want at least as much information as other groups.

Prompts for midwives to discuss various public health issues which are relevant during pregnancy e.g. employment rights, emotional support and domestic violence, the baby friendly initiative, smoking cessation.

Further prompts to discuss individual needs, access to services, and preferences for birth.

Information on antenatal screening tests consistent with aims of the National Screening Committee; prompts to confirm that information has been given to allow informed choice.

Details of family history consistent with recommendations from working party of the Joint Royal College Committee on Medical Genetics.

An emphasis on improved fetal growth screening, consistent with lessons from analyses of perinatal mortality. The Notes can incorporate ‘customised antenatal growth charts’ which adjust for individual maternal variation due to constitutional differences, ethnic group etc. The use of these charts improves the detection of fetal growth problems and reduces unnecessary investigations and admissions to hospital.

Guidance for professionals in accordance with national recommendations

The Birth section contains:

Support a comprehensive risk assessment at the onset of labour.

CTG interpretation in line with NICE Intrapartum guideline.

Encourage documentation of an individualised management plan for labour and delivery.

Include space to demonstrate discussion has occurred prior to procedures being undertaken.

Comprehensive risk assessment after delivery, to include relevant details from the antenatal, intrapartum and immediate postnatal period.

Provides an effective screening and assessment tool to facilitate early identification of complications by providing prompts for health professionals on specific risk factors and engages mothers in their care.

Encourages documentation of an individualised management plan for the immediate postnatal period.